Kerstin Lenk is an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Neural Engineering at Graz University of Technology (TU Graz). Her work bridges computational neuroscience and neural engineering, focusing on the role of astrocytes in neuronal network dynamics and neurodegenerative diseases. Research Focus: Computational modeling of astrocyte function, calcium signaling, and neuron-astrocyte interactions in health and disease (e.g., Alzheimer's, schizophrenia). Techniques: Finite element simulations, machine learning for parameter inference, and neurochip recordings for in vitro network analysis. Key Themes: Synaptic transmission, gliotransmission, aging effects on glutamate transport, and optoelectronic stimulation of brain tissues. Her publications highlight collaborations on multiscale biophysics and emerging applications in digital twins for in-silico pharmacology. Email: kerstin.lenk@tugraz.at
Dr. Yanzhi Zhang is a Professor of Mathematics at the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T), where she has held academic positions since 2010. She earned a Ph.D. in Mathematics from the National University of Singapore and a B.Sc. in Applied Mathematics (with a Computer Science minor) from Chongqing University. Her research spans computational and applied mathematics, focusing on fractional PDEs, nonlocal models, machine learning applications in materials science and business, Bose-Einstein superfluids, and seismic wave inversion. Dr. Zhang has been awarded the Faculty Excellence Award from Missouri S&T and other accolades. Her work is supported by grants from the National Science Foundation, including projects on fractional viscoacoustic wave equations, Bose-Einstein superfluids, and dispersive wave equations. She advises Ph.D. students in interdisciplinary research, such as Yumeng Wang (machine learning for eye-tracking data) and Yixuan Wu (seismic inversion). Her research integrates mathematical rigor with computational innovation, addressing real-world challenges in geophysics, materials science, and business analytics. Collaborations with industry and academia enhance her contributions to data-driven modeling and open-source strategies for digital transformation.
Prof. Haye Hinrichsen holds a C3 professorship at the University of Würzburg within the Chair of Theoretical Physics III . His academic journey includes roles as Acting Professor at the University of Wuppertal (2001), Senior Assistant at Duisburg-Essen (2000), and postdoctoral research at institutions like the Weizmann Institute of Science (1995–1997). He earned his PhD in 1993 from the University of Bonn under Prof. V. Rittenberg, focusing on quantum groups. His research interests span quantum information theory , exactly solvable systems , statistical physics far from equilibrium , reaction-diffusion processes , and non-equilibrium phase transitions . Notable achievements include the 2007 Award for Good Teaching and contributions to understanding entropy-based tuning systems in music. His recent work explores topics like causal set propagators in anti-de Sitter spacetime, eigenmodes on hyperbolic lattices, and renormalization techniques in quantum field theories. He has also applied physics principles to music acoustics, developing adaptive tuning schemes using entropy maximization. Key Research Themes: Quantum gravity, non-equilibrium dynamics, topological complexity, and interdisciplinary applications in music. Teaching: Courses include Theoretical Physics I, Computational Physics, and General Relativity. Lab/Affiliation: Chair of Theoretical Physics III at Hubland South, Building M1.
Chen Wei is an Associate Professor in the Department of Materials Design and Innovation at the University of Buffalo's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. His research focuses on data-driven and physics-based modeling of material systems, computational design of multi-principal element materials, and materials informatics for accelerated discovery. Recent research highlights include: Discovery of intrinsic temperature-dependent elastic anisotropy in NbTaTiV high entropy alloys (Science Advances 2022) Development of interpretable AI frameworks for multiscale materials design (NSF-funded 2019-2025) Creation of open thermodynamic databases with over 1200 metallic phase entries (Scientific Data 2017) Scientific Awards: NSF CAREER Award (2020) for high-entropy alloy research Notable collaborations include University of Tennessee (Prof. Peter Liaw), National Chiao Tung University (Prof. Yi-Chia Chou), and institutions like University of Colorado Boulder, Ohio State University, and Columbia University through NSF grants.
Dr. Sergio Felicelli is a Professor and Chair in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Akron's College of Engineering and Polymer Science. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Arizona (1991) and B.S./M.S. in Nuclear Engineering from Instituto Balseiro (1985). His expertise spans Solidification Modeling, Transport Phenomena, and Computational Mechanics. Dr. Felicelli has authored pioneering works on computer modeling of freckle segregation during solidification and has directed projects on casting, additive manufacturing, and parallel simulations of microstructures. His research focuses on advancing computational methods for material processing, including dendritic solidification under microgravity conditions, multiphase flow dynamics, and large-scale parallel simulations. He has secured $15M in grants through 23 funded projects and is an ASME Fellow. His work integrates experimental validation with numerical modeling, particularly using lattice Boltzmann and phase field methods. Dr. Felicelli has led international collaborations on casting defects and serves in academic leadership roles. Education: Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, University of Arizona, 1991 B.S./M.S., Nuclear Engineering, Instituto Balseiro, 1985 Dr. Felicelli's research trends emphasize computational modeling of materials under extreme conditions, with recent articles addressing microgravity solidification effects, multiphase interactions, and high-performance computing for microstructure prediction. His work bridges fundamental science and industrial applications in additive manufacturing and energy storage systems. Awards: ASME Fellow (prestigious honor in mechanical engineering) Grants & Funding: Over $15M secured through 23 grants, focusing on solidification science and advanced manufacturing technologies. He advises on courses such as Heat Transfer and Numerical Methods, and his lab explores cutting-edge techniques in computational materials science. Collaborations include NASA and international institutions, with a focus on solving complex industrial and aerospace material challenges.
Adrianus van Duin is a Distinguished University Professor at Pennsylvania State University, holding joint appointments in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Engineering Science and Mechanics, Chemistry, and Materials Science and Engineering. He leads the Materials Computation Center and specializes in developing and applying the ReaxFF reactive force field for simulating chemical and physical interactions in materials and molecules. His work spans catalysis, combustion, nanomaterials, and environmental chemistry. Van Duin has held prestigious fellowships, including the Marie Curie and Royal Society awards, and has contributed over 70 publications. His research integrates computational methods with experimental validation, focusing on applications like fuel cells, corrosion, and energy storage. Education: Ph.D. in Chemistry, Delft University of Technology, Netherlands (1996) M.Sc./B.Sc. in Chemistry, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands (1986-1991) Research Interests: ReaxFF development and integration into computational tools like ADF/BAND Water/metal oxide interactions and surface catalysis Combustion chemistry and reaction mechanism derivation Material degradation and corrosion mechanisms Environmental applications, including carbon mineralization Recent Trends in Articles: Recent work emphasizes ReaxFF applications in 2D materials (e.g., graphene, MoS₂), energy systems (hydrogen storage, batteries), and environmental remediation (PFAS removal). Simulations frequently address interfacial chemistry and phase transitions under extreme conditions. Awards: Marie Curie Research Fellowship (1997-1999) Royal Society Fellowship (1999-2002) Named Distinguished University Professor at Penn State Grants & Labs: Leads the van Duin Group, collaborating with over 80 academic institutions globally. Active in NSF-funded initiatives and industry partnerships (e.g., SCM, NASA/AMES). Current projects include ReaxFF workshops, code distribution, and experimental-computational synergy in material design. Labs/Teams: Directs the Materials Computation Center and oversees interdisciplinary collaborations across departments at Penn State.
Ludovic Autin, PhD is an Institute Investigator in the Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology at The Scripps Research Institute. His research bridges scientific visualization with artistic illustration to enhance understanding of complex biological systems. He leads development of software frameworks including cellPACK, mesoscope, ePMV, and cellPAINT/VR for multiscale molecular modeling. Education: PhD in Structural Biology from Paris 5 University (2002-2005), focusing on blood coagulation protein complexes. Professional experience spans roles from Assistant Lecturer (2005-2007) to Senior Staff Scientist (2015-2024), with key contributions to molecular docking methods and cellular environment modeling. Research emphasizes induced-fit molecular recognition, viral assembly mechanisms, DNA structure dynamics, and cellular crowding phenomena. Software innovations like cellPACK enable real-time modeling of crowded cellular environments, while mesoscope provides web-based integration of molecular data. Notable achievements include the first whole Mycoplasma cell structural model (2022) and collaborative work on HIV virion modeling. Active in computational tools development for both scientific research and educational outreach.
Dr. Paul Johnston is an Adjunct Research Fellow at Curtin University's School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, within the Faculty of Science and Engineering. His research focuses on geophysics, glaciology, and environmental science, with expertise in postglacial rebound modeling, sea-level changes, and geodetic techniques. He has conducted extensive studies on the impacts of glacial loads on Earth's crust and mantle dynamics, contributing to understanding historical ice volumes and tectonic responses. Dr. Johnston's work integrates advanced computational methods with geospatial data analysis, particularly using InSAR technology for deformation monitoring. His research also spans wildfire modeling, veterinary epidemiology, and paleoenvironmental reconstruction, reflecting interdisciplinary collaborations in Earth and planetary sciences. He has authored over 30 peer-reviewed publications since 1990, addressing topics ranging from climate-driven land movements to glacial chronology. His articles consistently explore interactions between Earth systems, such as the effects of deglaciation on seismic activity or the application of multiscale modeling for ecological disturbances. While no specific awards or grants are listed in the provided text, his contributions to geophysical and climatic research have been widely cited in fields like Quaternary science and geodynamics.
Clemens Verhoosel is an Associate Professor in Computational Methods for Model- and Data-Driven Engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), specializing in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. His research focuses on numerical methods for engineering applications, including isogeometric analysis, immersed methods for complex geometries, and uncertainty quantification. He holds a prestigious NWO Veni Grant (2011) and has contributed to open-source tools like the Nutils toolkit. Education: MSc (with honors) in Aerospace Engineering from TU Delft (2005) PhD in Computational Mechanics from TU Delft (2009, cum laude) Postdoctoral research at the University of Texas at Austin (2009-2010) Research Interests: Scan-based immersed isogeometric analysis Uncertainty quantification and Bayesian inference Fluid-structure interaction Multiphase flow and fracture mechanics Teaching: Courses include Advanced Discretization Techniques (Isogeometric Analysis) and Scientific Computing for Mechanical Engineering. Awards: NWO Veni Award (2011): "Efficient modelling of bone fractures" Labs/Teams: Leads the Group Verhoosel and contributes to EAISI Foundational and Energy Technology research groups.
Francesca Matrone is a Fixed-term Assistant Professor in the Department of Environment, Land and Infrastructure Engineering (DIATI) at Politecnico di Torino, Italy. Her work bridges geomatics, artificial intelligence, and cultural heritage conservation, with a focus on 3D modeling, GIS, and HBIM integration for urban and historical environments. Her research interests include Geomatics, Cultural Heritage Digitization, AI in Geospatial Analysis, Drone-Based 3D Modeling, Semantic Segmentation of Point Clouds, and Smart Cities . She applies advanced technologies like UAVs, deep learning, and BIM-GIS integration to enhance the documentation, maintenance, and resilience of built heritage. The recent publications highlight a strong trend in using AI and machine learning for semantic segmentation of 3D heritage models, integration of HBIM with GIS using standards like IFC and CityGML, and drone-based photogrammetry for urban and territorial planning. These works reflect a multidisciplinary approach combining computer science, civil engineering, and digital heritage. Francesca Matrone is actively involved in research projects such as: HERITALISE (2025–2028, EU-funded): Digitization and cloud visualization of heritage buildings ACLIMO (2024–2026): Research collaboration with APAM on protected areas COGNITIO-FORT (2025–2026): Scientific Director for a project with Unione Montana Valle Stura She teaches across multiple programs: PhD : GeoAI for advanced urban analyses; Drones for 3D modeling (Main Teacher) Master’s : GIS Modeling for City and Land; Knowledge of Built Heritage under Climate Change Bachelor’s : GeoAI: Artificial Intelligence and Geospatial Data; Topography (Course Collaborator) She is a member of the Teaching Colleges for Civil and Building Engineering and Electronic, Telecommunications and Physics Engineering. She also holds a Learning to Teach (L2T) Open Badge from Politecnico di Torino, demonstrating her commitment to pedagogical excellence. Francesca is a co-inventor of the MAIN10ANCE PLATFORM , a national software patent aimed at enhancing the maintenance and conservation of historical built heritage through integrated HBIM-GIS systems.
Dr. Wessel W. Wits serves as a Research Fellow at the University of Twente within the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS), specifically affiliated with the Applied Mathematics department and Mathematics of Multiscale Modeling and Simulations group. Concurrently, he holds an R&D Engineer position at the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR), focusing on synergistic industrial-academic research. His expertise centers on advanced thermal management systems and metal additive manufacturing, with foundational work stemming from his 2008 PhD on integrated cooling for electronic systems. Key research domains include: Development of metal 3D printing processes (Laser Powder Bed Fusion) and associated materials Innovative heat transfer devices: heat pipes, thermosyphons, loop heat pipes, pulsating heat pipes, and pumped two-phase loops Physics-based modeling of heat/mass flow in manufacturing systems Dr. Wits actively shapes the field through leadership roles as Associate Member of the International Academy for Production Engineering (CIRP), Associate Editor of the CIRP Journal of Manufacturing Science and Technology, Chair of the EU Pathfinder ThermoDust project, Steering Committee Member of THERMINIC, and Founder of the Dutch Knowledge Center for Heat Pipe Technology. His work bridges material science, engineering design, and performance utilization modeling to advance cooling technologies for electronics and aerospace applications.
M. Ángeles Serrano is an ICREA Research Professor at the Universitat de Barcelona, where she conducts interdisciplinary research in complex systems and network science. Her work bridges physics, biology, and economics through the study of complex networks and their real-world applications. Research Interests: Her primary focus lies in complex networks , including multiplex networks , networks of networks , and time-varying connectivity . She applies these frameworks to diverse systems such as molecular networks in cells, international trade, and socio-technological infrastructures. Her research emphasizes structural and dynamic properties of interconnected systems, aiming to uncover universal principles across domains. The most recent publications reflect a consistent trend in advancing theoretical and applied aspects of network science, particularly in multiscale modeling, visualization, and interdisciplinary applications. Her work integrates physics-based approaches with data-driven analysis across biological, economic, and social contexts. Scientific Awards: Outstanding Referee Award, American Physical Society Advising and Grants: While specific students are not listed, her leadership roles suggest active mentorship. She is a founding member of Complexitat , the Catalan network for complex systems, and a promoter of the UBICS (Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems), indicating involvement in large-scale collaborative research initiatives and likely grant-funded projects. Labs and Teams: She is closely associated with UBICS and has collaborated internationally through institutions such as Indiana University, EPFL, and IFISC, suggesting integration into major research consortia focused on complexity science.
Prof. Thomas R. Bieler is affiliated with the College of Engineering at Michigan State University and collaborates with institutions like IMDEA Materiales (Madrid, Spain) and CHESS (Ithaca, NY USA). His research focuses on heterogeneous deformation in metallic polycrystals, slip transfer across grain boundaries, and multiscale modeling of material behavior. Research Interests include Crystal Plasticity Grain Boundary Slip Transfer Anisotropic Deformation Computational Materials Science Multiscale Simulation High Energy X-ray Diffraction Publications highlight work on aluminum and titanium deformation mechanisms, slip transfer thresholds, and machine learning applications for grain boundary characterization. Grants include funding from the US Department of Energy (DOE/BES) and the Community of Madrid.
Dr. Tatiana Latychevskaia is a Principal Investigator at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) and holds an academic position at the University of Zurich's Department of Physics. She leads the Laboratory for Multiscale Bioimaging, focusing on developing advanced imaging techniques. Her research integrates theoretical and experimental approaches to push the boundaries of nanoscale visualization. Research Interests: Her group innovates in coherent high-resolution 3D imaging, including holography, coherent diffraction imaging, and convergent beam electron diffraction. Key areas are algorithm development for wavefront propagation, iterative phase retrieval, low-energy electron imaging (20–300 eV), and wavefront modulation for beam shaping. Applications span 2D materials, biological specimens, and nanostructured systems. Publication Trends: Recent work emphasizes algorithmic advances in phase retrieval and holographic reconstruction (2025), 2D material characterization using electron diffraction (2023–2025), and novel lensless imaging techniques (2024). Her publications demonstrate consistent leadership in quantitative electron microscopy and computational imaging. Teaching & Mentoring: She lectures on Electron Microscopy (PHY427) and Modern Microscopy (PHY425) at the University of Zurich. Actively supervises a diverse team including Postdocs, PhD students, and undergraduate researchers. Current advisees include Dylan Brault (Postdoc), Piet Fang (PhD), and Zhiyong Zhuang (Master's).
Anirban Patra is an Associate Professor in the Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) , where he has been a faculty member since October 2017. He holds a Ph.D. from Georgia Institute of Technology (USA) and a B.Tech. from IIT Kharagpur. His research is primarily in computational mechanics, crystal plasticity, and constitutive modeling of structural materials. Education Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, USA (2009–2013) B.Tech. in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, IIT Kharagpur (2005–2009) His research interests span computational mechanics , crystal plasticity , strain gradient plasticity , finite element modeling , and microstructure-property correlations in structural materials. He focuses on modeling deformation behavior in nuclear, aerospace, automotive, and additively manufactured materials, with an emphasis on irradiation effects, creep, fatigue, and failure mechanisms. He has developed ρ-CP , an open-source dislocation density-based crystal plasticity framework, enabling predictive simulations across scales. His recent publications indicate strong trends in multiscale modeling , residual strain prediction , non-Schmid effects , and machine learning integration for accelerated materials design. His work frequently combines simulations with experimental validation. Scientific Awards and Recognition Serves on the Editorial Advisory Board of the International Journal of Plasticity . Supervised students awarded Prime Minister's Research Fellowship . Advising and Grants Prof. Patra has mentored numerous Ph.D., M.Tech., and dual-degree students, many of whom have pursued postdoctoral and industry positions at institutions like Purdue University and Ansys. His research is supported through institutional and project-based funding, though specific grants are not listed. He actively recruits researchers with backgrounds in mechanics, materials, and computational methods. Current advisees: Gulivindala Gopi, Girish Kulkarni, Lopamudra Singh, Alanka Naga Satya Sai Mahesh, Suryakant Priyadarshan, Mukul. Alumni include Namit Pai, Suketa Chaudhary, Manikandan Muruganandam, Preet Shah, and others. Labs and Teams He leads the Computational Mechanics and Materials Research Group at IIT Bombay, which develops and applies advanced modeling tools like ρ-CP. The group focuses on high-performance computing, open-source software development, and interdisciplinary collaboration with experimentalists.
